Hello everyone, I’m Rodney Harrington, from Chicago, USA. This time, I joined an international team of three Spanish friends and an Australian woman to explore Yunnan, China. The June sun was warm but not scorching, and we were immediately greeted by the refreshing Yunnan air upon landing. Even more surprising, our tour guide, Lili, was already waiting for us at the airport gate, holding a sign.
Lili’s professionalism amazed us—not only did she speak fluent English, but she also engaged in a lively conversation with the three Spanish friends in Spanish. She told us her English name, Lili, and her friendly smile instantly put us at ease. We boarded a spacious and comfortable bus, where Lili cracked a few Chinese jokes, making everyone laugh. This relaxed atmosphere completely dispelled the fatigue of the long flight.
As the bus drove along, we arrived at our booked five-star hotel. The bellhop enthusiastically helped us take our luggage to our room, a thoughtful gesture that left a lasting impression on me. For lunch, we enjoyed authentic Yunnan cuisine. Since I’d informed them in advance that I don’t like spicy food, the chef specially adjusted the flavors for us. The dishes were delicious, and even I, accustomed to American cuisine, couldn’t help but exclaim: Chinese food truly lives up to its reputation!
In the afternoon, we headed to Erhai Lake. The scenery there was breathtaking—the lake was as azure as a mirror, the distant mountains were inky green, and occasionally a few water birds skimmed across the surface, making it feel like being in an ink painting. Lili shared the legends of Erhai Lake and the local culture with us, and we were captivated, each taking out our phones to capture these unforgettable moments.
However, it was Lijiang that truly captivated me. Having lived in Chicago for over 40 years, I never imagined such a captivating place could exist on Earth. The ancient city’s cobblestone streets, flowing bridges, and quaint wooden buildings—everywhere was filled with historical charm. Even more intriguing was the presence of many Chinese ethnic minorities living here. They wore colorful traditional costumes, and some of their rituals initially baffled me. After Lili’s explanation, I finally understood that these rituals were a way of welcoming and blessing guests from afar. This cultural encounter was deeply moving and filled me with a deep respect for this land.
This trip to Yunnan not only allowed me to appreciate the magnificence of nature, but also to experience the warmth and inclusiveness of the Chinese people. I’m grateful to Lili for her professional guidance, and to my fellow travelers for making this journey filled with laughter. If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, come to Yunnan—the beauty here is beyond your imagination!
Travel Tips:
Yunnan’s pleasant weather in June makes it suitable for casual clothing, but the temperature swings significantly between morning and evening, so remember to bring a jacket.
Inform your dietary preferences in advance; Yunnan cuisine offers a rich variety of flavors, and non-spicy options are equally delicious!
The cultures of ethnic minorities are unique, so respecting local customs and listening carefully to your guide’s explanations will yield even greater insights.
Looking forward to my next trip to China!
—Rodney Harrington
